Floor Statements

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate the distinguished service of Chief Darren Stewart of Pawcatuck, Connecticut. As the Chief of Police in Stonington, Stewart led an esteemed career that spanned over 38 years since he joined the force at the age of 19. In leading the division for the last 14 years, Chief Stewart has embodied the spirit of a perfect role model and leader--one that I am sure that future chiefs, not just in Stonington but also across the entire district, will look to in praise and admiration.

ln addition to serving in the police department, Stewart also pursued a passion for learning and teaching. In 2000, he earned a Bachelor of General Studies from the University of Connecticut in Storrs and continued his studies at Salve Regina University of Rhode Island to earn his Master of Business Administration in Management. Armed with these degrees and a passion for helping others grow, Darren began a secondary career as a professor for his alma maters and the Connecticut State Police Academy in 2004. Since his first day as a professor, Stewart has proved a patient and wise teacher committed to educating future community members.

Chief Stewart's dual-path as an educator and community leader proved to make him a natural, steady-handed Chief of the Stonington Police Department. Passionate about the protection of his local community, Stewart's dedication and impressive work ethic earned him the promotion of Chief of Police in 2008. As someone whose career originated with the force, he came into the role with a clear understanding of the greatest opportunities for improvement. It was with this background in mind that prioritizing an efficient and resource-rich workforce became the first, second and third priority.

One-by-one, Chief Stewart marked off his checklist of goals for the force, equipping his officers with the tools that they needed to succeed. This included updating mechanical systems and computer technology, acquiring a new police boat, and creating a chaplain program to assist his officers with the toughest part of the job-- notifying immediate family of the tragic loss of one of their colleagues. Notably, it was also with much thanks to Chief Stewart's efforts that Stonington led the movement to invest in local communications infrastructure and tie the agency into the state's superior radio system. As a result of Chief Stewart's initiative and the town's major upgrade in terms of safe and efficient communication, Stonington earned the 2018 Municipal Excellence Award from the Connecticut Conference of Municipalities. With Chief Stewart at the helm, the Stonington Police Department also entered a parentship with Safe Futures, a social services agency based in nearby New London, Connecticut, which now supports the town in assisting victims of domestic violence. My office has worked with the Stonington Police Department to obtain federal competitive grant funding in the past and I can personally attest that the department would not be nearly as well equipped and successful as it is today without Chief Stewart's hard work and advocacy for his fellow officers.

Madam Speaker, I am so proud to represent such selfless and committed constituents as Darren Stewart in the second district of Connecticut. Inspired by his wife, Beth, three daughters, and the difference made by his own colleagues, Chief Stewart set out to ensure the Stonington Police Department worked for their partners: the People of Stonington. Though his transition into his new role undoubtedly leaves large shoes to fill, we find gratitude in the fact that he has left the department in incredible standing, in capable hands, and that Chief Stewart will remain an active member of the local community. To that end, as he embarks on this next chapter with his family, I ask my colleagues in the House to join me in honoring Chief J. Darren Stewart, an inspiring leader and impeccable role model, for his huge successes in the police department and impact on the countless lives of others, extending the legacy of his career.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to commend the career of Lisa Trolan, who retired from her work with General Dynamics Electric Boat, on December 23, 2021.

Madam Speaker, Ms. Trolan retires from a long, dedicated career that spans 35 years with Electric Boat. As a senior member of Electric Boat's Public Affairs team, Lisa welcomed thousands of visitors to the company's locations in Connecticut and Rhode Island and helped to highlight the skilled workforce of technological marvels produced by Electric Boat. In doing so, Lisa has acted as a staunch advocate for our community, representing a major employer within the region to attract businesses, suppliers, and employees alike.

A Groton, Connecticut native and a graduate of the University of Connecticut, Lisa has lived out a destiny of nurturing the growth of the very community that raised her. These foundational values trace all the way back to her upbringing under her parents, Julio and Frances, who also served the town of Groton well through their longstanding, respective roles with Groton Utilities and the public school system. It is no coincidence that Electric Boat's Connecticut headquarters is in Groton. It is also no surprise that even in retirement, Lisa remains an active supporter of local civic organizations as well as the University of Connecticut.

Madam Speaker, Lisa's legacy with Electric Boat--one of excellence and commitment to its employees, the Navy and the Nation--is unrivaled. She has always prioritized giving back to her foundational roots and has played a direct part in adding oil to the economic engine that is Electric Boat. To that end, I ask

that my colleagues in the House join me in congratulating Lisa Trolan on her well-earned retirement.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to commemorate and praise the career of George Crouse, of Stonington, Connecticut. The head coach of the Stonington High School girl's tennis team, George has recently been named a recipient for this year's Gold Key Award, a prestigious honor that celebrates icons in Connecticut athletics. As a coach at Stonington for nearly 50 years, Crouse, with the support of his athletes, has steered his teams to victory time and time again, proving his determination, work ethic, and irreplaceable coaching methods. It is no exaggeration when I say that George is a monumental pillar in not just the success of Stonington High School's tennis team, but the entire Stonington community.

A former student of the class of 1960 himself, George Crouse has represented Stonington High School and southeastern Connecticut impressively well. A truly dedicated steward to Stonington, it was not long after his graduation that he returned to Stonington High to begin his career in coaching in the fall of 1973, first as the boy's tennis coach before transitioning to the coach for the girl's team in 1987. George was also a long-time teacher at Stonington High--having racked up 37 years in the social studies department. In addition to his teaching and coaching careers, George has always sought to increase his role in supporting the Stonington community, even serving a stint as the town's first selectman. Through his numerous and renowned careers in the area, George has been an enduring force of moral fortitude for Stonington, impressing upon the town's youngest generation the value of community spirit.

George's experiences as a high school teacher and as First Selectman have helped reinforce the qualities that have made him a prodigious coach. George is kind but firm, wise but humble. He takes his students seriously and coaches them in ways that will help each succeed. His tenure and track record of well more than 800 career victories for boys' and girls' tennis are evidence enough of his natural leadership and passion for inspiring the best in others. However, his 2019 reception of the National High School Coach of the Year makes the record clear. This year's Gold Key Award is yet another well-deserved notch in his belt.

Clearly, George's legacy as a coach for the Stonington Bears is one to-be emulated. His team is currently 5-0 overall and has three state championships and eight class tournament championships under its belt. For his distinguished career, the tennis courts at Stonington High have already been dedicated in his name. Even so, he remains as humble as ever; thanking his players for getting him to where he is, including his own four children--Maggie, Liz, Ann, and George.

Madam Speaker, I am honored to represent a district that is comprised of such hard-working and community-oriented individuals like George. As the Congressman for Stonington, I have had a chance to see up close his passion for the town and I can attest he is true public servant. A wise teacher, a confident leader, and a passionate coach, George has exemplified to his own town, our state and our Nation the boundless limits of what can be accomplished when a community sticks together. I am confident that there are very few that are more deserving of the Gold Key Award as much as George, and that he will continue to raise the bar for Stonington High School. George is joined by his wife Ann and their four children in celebrating this major milestone for the family and the school. As he continues to make history as coach at Stonington High School, I, along with countless others, excitedly await the new milestones that he is bound to achieve. To that end, I ask my colleagues in the House to join me in honoring George Crouse for his unsurpassable coaching career, further extending the legacy of his actions.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of United States Naval Captain James H. Patton, Jr. Captain Patton passed away last year on September 27, 2021, at his home in North Stonington, Connecticut. I have had the distinct pleasure of connecting with Captain Patton over the years and can personally attest to his distinguished character, major contributions to policy conversations on our nation's submarine force, and participation and care for his local community.

Born on January 6, 1939, to James H. Sr. and Suzanne Patton in Norwood, Massachusetts, James had the spirit of a New Englander through and through. Due to his shrewd and strong character, it was no surprise that James went on to attend the U.S. Naval Academy, where he graduated in 1960. Upon graduation, James immediately set sail on his military career, dedicating the next 25 years of his life toward faithful leadership within our nation's Navy. It was during these years that he became an incredible bank of knowledge with respect to our nation's submarine force, serving on five nuclear-powered attack submarines, two ballistic-missile submarines, and commanding the USS Pargo. By the time of his retirement from the Navy, his merited service had earned him the rank of Captain as well as several accolades, including the Legion of Merit and the National Defense Service Medal.

Captain Patton's dedication to the strength of our nation's Navy was never intended to end with his retirement from the military. Upon his departure in 1985, our region became lucky enough for Captain Patton to discover North Stonington as a place to call his permanent home. As a newfound resident, Captain Patton would go on to leverage his extensive experience with the Navy and found his own advocacy firm, Submarine Tactics & Technology, Inc. It was through this medium and his several published materials that Captain Patton championed advancing the narrative on investing in our ``Silent Service,'' directly contributing to our region's existence as a manufacturing powerhouse as well as the position of naval strength which we continue to benefit from to this day.

As a resident of North Stonington, Captain Patton made sure his outgoing personality also enriched his local community. For instance, he was not only a member of but a valuable contributor to the Naval Submarine League, North Stonington Lions Club and the Education Foundation. Truly, it was always in his nature to lend a helping hand.

Madam Speaker, as the representative of eastern Connecticut, I cannot think of a citizen more outstanding than Captain James H. Patton, Jr. The quarter of a century dedicated to serving our nation is commendable by itself, but James continued to demonstrate exceptional civic duty even upon his initial retirement. Our entire southeastern Connecticut community continues to mourn his loss to this day. I find gratitude in the fact that his surviving family has stood strong in bearing the standard of his memory, namely, his wife Mary Patton, three children Terry Rhoads, John Patton and James Patton III, sister Mary Cobbett, and numerous grandchildren, nieces and nephews. In particular, I have had the opportunity to get to know James III, who has followed the example of his fathers informed idealism to serve overseas to promote peaceful sustainable international development all over the globe. The invaluable contributions of Captain Patton's life and legacy will continue to impact our nation's security and his local community for generations to come. To these ends, I ask that my colleagues in the House join me in honoring Captain James Patton, Jr.'s incredible life of service.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to commend the career of Lisa Trolan, who retired from her work with General Dynamics Electric Boat, on December 23, 2021.

Madam Speaker, Ms. Trolan retires from a long, dedicated career that spans 35 years with Electric Boat. As a senior member of Electric Boat's Public Affairs team, Lisa welcomed thousands of visitors to the company's locations in Connecticut and Rhode Island and helped to highlight the skilled workforce of technological marvels produced by Electric Boat. In doing so, Lisa has acted as a staunch advocate for our community, representing a major employer within the region to attract businesses, suppliers, and employees alike.

A Groton, Connecticut native and a graduate of the University of Connecticut, Lisa has lived out a destiny of nurturing the growth of the very community that raised her. These foundational values trace all the way back to her upbringing under her parents, Julio and Frances, who also served the Town of Groton well through their longstanding, respective roles with Groton Utilities and the Public School system. It is no coincidence that Electric Boat's Connecticut headquarters is in Groton. It is also no surprise that even in retirement, Lisa remains an active supporter of local civic organizations as well as the University of Connecticut.

Madam Speaker, Lisa's legacy with Electric Boat--one of excellence and commitment to its employees, the Navy and the nation--is unrivaled. She has always prioritized giving back to her foundations and has played a direct part in adding oil to the economic engine that is Electric Boat. With his departure, our region and Electric Boat can find comfort in the sound supply chain infrastructure that he directly brought about. To that end, I ask that my colleagues in the House join me in congratulating Lisa Trolan on her well-earned retirement.

Madam Speaker, it is with great sorrow that I rise today to honor the life of the late Joseph ``Joey'' Bosco, a lifelong Enfield, Connecticut resident who passed on April 1st, 2022, at the age of 60.

Born to Angelo Bosco and Mary Diana Bosco in 1962 in Springfield, Massachusetts, just across the Connecticut border, Joey was destined to be an irreplaceable member of the Enfield community. Upon graduating from Enfield High School in 1980, Joey remained in Enfield where he became the co-owner of Bosco Automotive Inc. Joey was memorable for his dedication to his town and family.

Having lived all his life in Enfield, his love for his town was reflected through the many hours of dedicated public service to the Town of Enfield. Joey served as a member of the Enfield Town Council for more than 14 years and on several other community boards throughout the years. He was especially notable as a member of the Board of Directors for the Four Town Fair. He spent many hours planning leading up to the fair, the main event of which for him was always meant to be an opportunity to connect with family and friends.

Apart from his constant service to his town, Joey spent his free time on the beach, at car shows, and on his farm. Friday nights Joey was known to be at the Country Diner with his family and friends talking for hours. The most rewarding title to Joey is being a ``Papa'' to his four loving grandchildren, Charlotte, Waylon Joseph, Oliver, and Reagan.

Madam Speaker, it is an incredible honor to represent constituents as loyal to the future of their community as Joey Bosco. Though Joey's legacy and character will continue to have a ripple effect as a force of altruism, particularly for those who knew him in the Enfield community, his loss and what it means for the region cannot be understated. I had the opportunity to get to know him at community events-parades and veteran's ceremonies. Walking beside him, I saw firsthand how revered he was by neighbors, customers, first responders and fellow public officials. We were different parties, but on a personal level he was very cordial and down to earth. I really enjoyed spending time with him. As difficult as it is for us to process his passing, it is worth finding solace in the impact that his life will have upon the local community as well as his surviving family and loved ones, namely his devoted wife Jackie, and daughters, Jacquelyn M. Siekiera and her husband Zachary, Jessica M. Bosco, Jamie Jo Bosco and her spouse, Isaac Velazquez, and considered son in law, Ben Hebert, and his four cherished grandchildren. Joey also leaves behind brothers, John and Angelo, and sister, Rori, as well as numerous extended family members and friends.

To that end, I ask that the entire House join me in setting Joseph Bosco's name further into stone, and to recognize his life of incredible service to the Enfield community.

Madam Speaker, it is with profound sadness that I rise today in recognition of the loss of a champion of his community--Fire Police Lieutenant Peter Blume, Jr., of Vernon, Connecticut. Pete, as he was known, tragically left this world, still active in his service as a first responder, on March 2, 2022, at the age of 53. A guardian to his fellow service members, Lieutenant Pete Blume has served with the Fire Police company for the last six years. He was known for his particularly infectious degree of optimism and was eating to all.

Born to Carolyn Bolk Blume and Peter Blume on December 24, 1968, in South Windsor, Pete was destined to live out his life as a source of energy within eastern Connecticut's communities. Upon graduating from South Windsor High, Pete went on to Eastern Connecticut State University where he achieved a degree in physical education in 1991. A true steward of the community, he devoted the next nearly 20 years of his life to teaching as an elementary school physical education teacher for Ashford and Union, Connecticut. He was deeply passionate toward the growth of our region's youngest generation, engaging with students as a youth program leader, the coach for the Ashford boys' basketball team and even by taking on the title of Chef Blume as a cook for Union's annual spaghetti dinner fundraiser.

Amidst his earlier days in teaching, Pete fostered a relationship with the love of his life, Wendy, who he married in 1996. It was through their relationship that Pete's love for raising children transformed him into quite the family man, with the birth of their two children Allison and Timothy. Together, the family moved to Vernon, Connecticut where the children became an inspiration to Pete, catalyzing an entirely new era of community involvement. It was throughout this new era that Pete grew in his already known love for youth sports, coaching and volunteering for his kids' teams in Vernon Little League, Vernon Soccer and Vernon Basketball.

Pete's involvement with the Town of Vernon did not stop with his coaching the next generation. As we all know, he took an interest in and joined the Vernon Fire Department as a fire police officer, becoming the man responsible for the safety of fellow first responders at the scene of an incident. Pete was the perfect man for the job--he was the kind of person who would give you the shut off his back if you needed it. As such, he was known for bringing an unmatched sense of diligence and care to the role, which he took incredibly seriously. For Pete, the safety of those who displayed similar care toward his own neighbors was paramount. He was most recently recognized for his diligence, becoming a lst Lieutenant with the Vernon Fire Police company which he again served with for more than six years.

Madam Speaker, we ask firefighters and their families to do an enormously important job across our community, our state, and our nation. Standing by every day of the year at all hours, Pete, Vernon's ``gentle giant,'' has given true example to the dedication that first responders arm themselves with while serving their respective communities. In Pete's case, he was also armed with a heart the size of Vernon. These brave men and women unquestionably deserve the very best we can offer as a small form of gratitude for their sacrifice. While we mourn the void left by Pete's loss, we find consolation in the memory he leaves behind. He is survived by his loving family, namely, his wife Wendy, who is also a teacher in Manchester. his two children Timothy and Allison Blume, his mother Carolyn Blume, his brother, David Blume, and his sister Kristin McCauley. While his family will undoubtedly carry the legwork in extending the reach of his memory, I ask that my colleagues join me in supporting this effort, thanking Pete for a life of service and setting his name and character further into stone.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to mourn the passing of a true, diligent public servant, Patricia Ann Pinney, of Somers, Connecticut. Pat passed at the age of 70 on February 20, 2022, surrounded by her loving family.

Born to Mary and Stanley Paduch on June 13, 1951, in the neighboring State of Massachusetts, Pat lived out her life as a dedicated, northern Connecticut native. Destined to nurture the same community that raised her, Pat

moved with her family to Suffield from the next-door town of Enfield at the age of 10. After graduating from Our Lady of The Angels Academy, Patricia remained in Eastern Connecticut where she went on to achieve her bachelor's degree from University of Connecticut. It was during her time at the University of Connecticut where she also met and then married the love of her life, David Pinney. Upon achieving her bachelors in 1973, Pat immediately picked up a career teaching in Enfield. A true reflection of her character, however, Pat eventually placed her passion for teaching on pause and departed the Enfield school system so that she could raise their four children: Leigh, Rob, Matthew and Nora.

Having built out her family's roots, Pat recommenced her legacy as a renowned teacher at Hall Memorial School in Willington, Connecticut. Providing students with a sense of the world in which they live, it was Patricia's mission to provide the next generation with the tools they needed to succeed within their respective community. Patricia was a truly natural educator, armed with a keen ability to keep her students engaged. She acted as the regional coordinator for History Day, encouraging students to represent Northeast Connecticut on the national stage during the History Day Competition in Washington, D.C. A strong finalist for the Connecticut Teacher of the Year and recipient of the University of Connecticut's NEAG School of Education Outstanding School Educator Award, Pat's career as an educator was defined by excellence.

Madam Speaker, Patricia was known for her generous spirit. Whether in the classroom, at home, or out in the community, she invested tremendously in everyone who she met. As a mother and educator, she truly had the growth of the next generation at heart. Her absence will be felt sorely in the Eastern Connecticut community. Though we mourn this terrible loss, we find gratitude in the ripple effect caused by the strength of her character. There is literally an army of people out there to operate as the standard bearers of her memory, namely, her husband, David, and family-in-law of over 50 years, their four children and families, and her five siblings. To that end, I ask my colleagues in the House to join me in honoring Patricia Ann Pinney.

Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the distinguished career of Jane Baird, of Haddam, Connecticut. As the Senior Director of External Affairs, Jane celebrated a major milestone on January 14th, 2022, when she officially reached 20 years of dedicated employment and leadership with Connecticut Children's Medical Center. By coordinating relationships between the CCMC and its partners, Jane has truly proved her devotion to the health and welfare of Connecticut's children, ensuring a bright and healthy future for countless youth throughout the state.

Before the outset of her career with Connecticut Children's Medical Center, Jane began with her studies at Grinnell College, graduating in 1988 with a bachelor's degree in biology. Upon graduating, Jane went on to study at Indiana University, graduating with a master's in public administration in 1993. Equipped with this robust education, Jane initially moved to and worked in Vermont as the Managed Care Administrator of the Office of Vermont Health Access for over 4 years. Jane then moved to the Vermont Division of Health Care Administration to be the Director of Quality Assurance and Consumer Protection, keeping to her tireless life-mission of ensuring those around her receive proper medical care.

In 2002, the Second District of Connecticut was lucky when Jane and her family discovered the area for their new home. Upon moving to the small town of Haddam, Jane launched her impactful career with CCMC as the Director of Government Relations. In this role, Jane was responsible for the maintenance of legislative relationships on behalf of the medical center, acting as a conduit between the medical staff at CCMC and the world of public policy. Jane approached this role with great passion, leading advocacy efforts with a wide variety of partners to promote healthcare policies that advance the growth and health of families and their children. Throughout her tenure, Jane has been an extraordinary force in the realm of Medicaid, injury prevention, and national health reform. Without Jane's leadership, I am sure that CCMC would not have had such an influential impact on the well-being of children in Connecticut and across the country.

In recognition of her hard-earned successes, Jane was promoted in 2016 to her current title of Senior Director of External Relations. Under this expanded leadership position, Jane has been instilled with a deeper connection to the promotion of healthy families and communities, taking up even greater, more creative efforts of advocacy. In doing so, she has successfully and dutifully managed communications with the medical center's many affiliates, including Hartford Public Schools and local YMCAs.

Since 2004, Jane has also been an active member of the Board of Directors at Southside Institutions Neighborhood Alliance in Hartford. A medium of cooperation between CCMC, Hartford Hospital, and Trinity College, the Alliance continues to serve a devoted mission toward improving the lives of people in South Central Hartford. In 2011, Jane was appointed Chairwoman to the Alliance as a result of her commitment to and advancement of the organization's core mission.

Madam Speaker, Jane's advocacy for children--characterized by understanding, patience, and perseverance--is a practice that I am grateful to represent in Connecticut's Second District. Throughout her 20 years of advocacy with Connecticut Children's Medical Center, and the years of work before that in Vermont, Jane has displayed how providing care to others involves more than what we often think of. Even after 20-plus years in the field, Jane's devotion to the children is as tireless as ever, a mark of true devotion for helping others in the world. For her unparalleled altruistic nature, I ask my colleagues in the House to join me in honoring Jane Baird, an unrelenting advocate and inspiring leader, setting her name, character and continued work further into stone.

Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the distinguished accomplishments of Cadet Chief Petty Officer Jonah Krepps of Uncasville, Connecticut. As a young resident of Eastern Connecticut, Cadet Krepps's committed service to the U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps (USNSCC) was recognized on February 4, 2022, in his promotion to the rank of Cadet Chief Petty Officer.

Chartered in 1962 by an act of Congress, the Naval Sea Cadet Corps is a non-profit youth group that helps provide young Americans aged 10 through 18 with key maritime, leadership and teamwork skills. Supporting 9,000 cadets in 380 units in 47 states including Connecticut, the program also provides young Americans with valuable experience that they can use if they go on to join the Armed Services. For Cadet Chief Petty Officer Jonah Krepps, this has meant their longtime membership in the Nautilus Division, which is stationed at the home of our nation's undersea force, SUBASE New London.

Madam Speaker, as a member of the House Armed Service Committee, which has made sure that Congress follows through on its commitments to this program, I know firsthand the valuable work that the cadets and their leaders do each and every day. This year the Nautilus Division recognizes the dedication and work ethic of Jonah, and it is conferring the honor of being promoted to the position of Cadet Chief Petty Officer during the Corps' 60th anniversary of preparing our nation's next generation of leaders. To that end, I ask that my colleagues in the House join me in thanking Cadet Chief Petty Officer Krepps for his initiative and wishing him well in his future endeavors. Bravo Zulu.

Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the distinguished accomplishments of Cadet Chief Petty Officer Joe Whiteside of Killingworth, Connecticut. As a young resident of Eastern Connecticut, Cadet Whiteside's committed service to the

U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps (USNSCC) was recognized on February 1, 2022, in his promotion to the rank of Cadet Chief Petty Officer.

Chartered in 1962 by an act of Congress. the Naval Sea Cadet Corps is a non-profit youth group that helps provide young Americans aged 10 through 18 with key maritime, leadership and teamwork skills. Supporting 9,000 cadets in 380 units in 47 states including Connecticut, the program also provides young Americans with valuable experience that they can use if they go on to join the Armed Services. For Cadet Chief Petty Officer Whiteside, this has meant their longtime membership in the Nautilus Division, which is stationed at the home of our nation's undersea force, SUBASE New London.

Madam Speaker, as a member of the House Armed Service Committee, which has made sure that Congress follows through on its commitments to this program, I know firsthand the valuable work that the cadets and their leaders do each and every day. This year the Nautilus Division recognizes the dedication and work ethic of Joe, and it is conferring the honor of being promoted to the position of Cadet Chief Petty Officer during the Corps' 60th anniversary of preparing our nation's next generation of leaders. To that end, I ask that my colleagues in the House join me in thanking Cadet Chief Petty Officer Whiteside for his initiative and wishing him well in his future endeavor. Bravo Zulu.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the tenure of a distinguished public servant in my district, Cathy Iino, of Killingworth, Connecticut. As First Selectwoman for the Town of Killingworth, Cathy chose to not seek re-election in 2021, marking a capstone to almost 20 years in service to her local community. Leading a tight-knit community of more than 6,300 residents, Cathy has consistently gone above and beyond in working with her constituency to promote the advancement of Killingworth while preserving its small-town charm. Her approach to leadership--a prime representation of eastern Connecticut values--stressed the importance of cooperation, respect, and humility.

Cathy studied Humanities at the University of Chicago, graduating in 1973. After having already moved to the nearby city of New Haven, Cathy and her husband, Paul, were in search of a place to call home, moving to Killingworth in 1996. While working as both a writer and editor, Cathy continually came across new opportunities for her community to grow, prompting her to depart from her line of work and enter the world of politics. First serving on the Board of Finance, then she found success in 2007 winning her bid to serve on the Board of Selectman--the first woman since 1993 to sit on the Board. In 2009, she elevated her leadership in the town when she was elected First Selectwoman.

During her tenure as First Selectwoman, Cathy prioritized being present and available for her residents. In 2015, for example, Cathy implemented ``Coffee with the First Selectwoman,'' to increase transparency and citizen participation in their town government. She would make herself routinely available for residents to talk to, whether it was outside town hall or at a local business. Though there are countless examples that demonstrate Cathy's guiding philosophy of bottom-up governing, perhaps the most successful was her ability to seek out and nurture volunteers to push forward the issues that mattered to them.

Cathy truly appreciated the difference that volunteers make in small- town communities, embodying the spirit of volunteerism through her unwavering support of resident leaders. Being a smaller town, Killingworth has always had to put its resources to good use and has been best suited to rely on the voices of many rather than one. Frequently, Cathy encouraged residents to advocate for projects that they were passionate about, at which point she would lend her support and experience. This style of leadership is one of many traits that defined her time as First Selectwoman, and it reaped great rewards. One notable result of her support of volunteers is the restoration of Parmelee Farm, a historical site in Killingworth which had long been in a state of disrepair. Purely through volunteer efforts aided by Cathy's guiding hand, the farm has since become a vibrant area that connects the community together by way of recreation, education, preservation, and the arts.

During her time in office, Cathy was paramount to addressing the quality of Killingworth's capital assets--most notably of which would be the town's surface infrastructure. Under her leadership, a two-year study was conducted on Killingworth's roads, and the most deficient in town have since been rehabilitated.

Madam Speaker, as the congressman who represents Killingworth, I had a chance to observe up close Cathy's fine work, whether it was dealing with natural disasters, such as Hurricane Sandy or the Covid pandemic and she always performed superbly. She was extremely knowledgeable about the interaction of local, state, and federal programs which was invaluable to her town.

Madam Speaker, it is an incredible honor to represent and work with constituents as industrious and progress-oriented as Cathy Iino. Throughout her 12 years in service, Cathy has capably understood that leadership is about visualizing the connections that may exist within one's own community and then uplifting those connections in order to amplify the heartbeat of the town. Cathy is dedicating her well- deserved retirement to her family--her husband, two daughters, and one granddaughter. Even upon entering retirement, Cathy has remained civically minded, thinking about those issues which both our nation and the State of Connecticut face. Her diligent professionalism, caring nature, and honest, down-to-earth style of leadership will be impossible to replace, so we must find gratitude in that her impact on Killingworth will certainly last for generations to come. To these ends, I ask that my colleagues in the House join me in honoring Cathy Iino, a steward to her community and model citizen.

Madam Speaker, I rise today and ask the House to observe the passing of a true gentleman and public-spirited citizen of the State of Connecticut, Mr. Anthony ``Tony'' DiPace. After a courageous battle with cancer, Tony unfortunately passed on from this earth on January 22, 2022, at the age of 62.

Born in Hartford in 1960 to Concetta and Angela DiPace, Tony was ingrained with the Connecticut spirit since birth. It was not long after his entry into this world, however, that tragedy was forced upon him with the loss of his mother, resulting in an early transition into the loving Wee and Rose Crowley household based in Enfield, Connecticut. Both out of this loss and his fostering under the Crowley's, Tony gained an early understanding to the importance of discovering one's own roots and connecting with those who surround us in our daily lives. It was therefore without question that upon graduating Fermi High School in 1978, Tony saw the value in keeping close to the town that raised him and went on to graduate at the top of his class from United Technical School in Springfield, Massachusetts just a stone's throw away from Enfield.

Armed with his certification as a master mechanic, Tony quickly became an integral part of his hometown, opening his own automotive business, ``Hazard Motors.'' Though he kept up with the success of his one-stop-shop for more than 34 years in order to build a foundation for his family, he also always put the customer-in-need before himself. Beyond the success of his business, Tony lived a life in constant search for new connections with his neighbors so that, together, they could work to create a more prosperous town for the next generation, including his son, Anthony.

It is with no surprise that a caring man like Tony found time to wear just about every hat in town. Included within his tenured service was 40 years with the Enfield Democratic Town Committee, where he constantly discussed and put forward municipal priorities. His dedication earned him a several stints in both elected and membership positions, including his advocacy as the former Chairman of the Enfield Planning & Zoning Commission as well as his service as the Chair of the Democratic Town Committee. Throughout all of these efforts, his clear and present passion and candid character made him a capable unifying voice in Enfield, which he was most recently recognized for with the William ``Red'' Edger, Jr. ``Democrat of the Year'' Award in 2021.

Tony was also sought to establish a positive impact with the town's youth. Whether it was through the local concession stand, as coach for youth teams, or his sponsorship of the youth basketball and baseball programs, it was always Tony's goal to set up the next generation for success, affording them the

same appreciation for the Town which he found while growing up.

Madam Speaker, Tony was purely altruistic, always thinking of those around him and how he could help them. I had the distinct pleasure and honor to know Tony for over 20 years and often had a front-row seat to his fine work in the auto repair business. He always had his sleeves folded up, ready to get into the grease and get the job done in order to excel beyond the needs of the customer. I also know that he was diligent and passionate with his involvement in town affairs and that he poured his heart and soul into any activity laid before him. Through everything he accomplished, whether it was his contributions to the town's economy, through municipal government, or investing in youth activities, it is worth emphasizing that it was always about leaving behind a stronger community for whom Tony considered family. Though this perspective was Tony's guiding North Star throughout his entire life, everything he did, was in some small way tied to leaving Enfield and our State a better place for Anthony.

Madam Speaker, though the Enfield community lost a force for good with the passing of Tony DiPace, we will always find the space to honor his legacy which now thrives through just about every member of the Enfield community. It is also through the roots of the Crowley family that we can entrust Tony's many surviving brothers and sisters-- wherever they may reside--to carry his memory forward. To that end, it is with great respect and admiration that I ask my colleagues in the House join me, in addition to all those that will remember Tony DiPace, in honoring his life and impact on his community.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of a man who lived selflessly and embodied the true definition of a patriot. John ``Jack'' Casey, of Groton, Connecticut, who passed January 4th after a lifetime of service to his community, his state, and his nation.

Jack Casey was born on September 30, 1946, to Catherine Agnes Keane McDonald and John George Casey, Jr. in Allston, Massachusetts. He attended high school in Brighton, Massachusetts, and graduated in 1964. Immediately following his graduation, Jack heeded the call to serve his country and enlisted in the United States Navy. During his time in the Navy, he completed Disbursing Clerk Class A School in Newport, Rhode Island; and soon advanced to the rank Disbursing Clerk Third Class while stationed in New London, Connecticut.

Jack chose to extend his enlistment by thirteen months, volunteering to serve his nation in Vietnam. He attended Counter Insurgency Training in Little Creek, Virginia; and served at National Security Activity in Da Nang, Vietnam RVN from July 1967 to July 1968. His time in the Navy earned him the Navy Unit Commendation, Navy Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with four bronze stars, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross Unit Citation, Republic Navy Republic of Vietnam Civil Action Unit Citation, and Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal.

Following his discharge from the Navy, Jack returned to Groton and found employment at the Navy Exchange. In November 1968, Jack began his 33-year career at Pfizer Pharmaceuticals, working as a chemical operator. Jack worked for Pfizer until his retirement in November 2001.

Soon after his retirement, he started volunteering for numerous groups. Jack epitomized the spirit of volunteerism; his tireless dedication to fellow veterans and to his community would define his life. While Jack volunteered for Meals on Wheels, he would frequently go above and beyond for the seniors on his route--buying them items from the store without accepting reimbursement. In 2001, Jack began volunteering as a Registrar for the World War II memorial, inducting more than 100,000 people into the World War II Registry. He also volunteered as a Registrar for the U.S. Navy Memorial and U.S. Army Memorial, registering over 75,000 heroes as Sea Service Personnel and over 75,000 heroes for the U.S. Army Memorial.

I had the honor to witness first-hand Jack's deep compassion for his country and fellow veterans when he joined my Veterans Advisory Board in 2007. His participation and input as a member of the Board was invaluable as he identified real life problems within the Veterans Administration that impacted our veterans. However, the most remarkable quality about Jack was that for each issue he raised, he also brought forth constructive ideas to address the problem. Veterans in eastern Connecticut and all across the country benefited from his passionate well-informed advocacy.

Jack continued to be a champion of veterans, becoming a member of the Patriot Guard Riders in 2008. During his time as a member of the Patriot Guard, his role would encompass that of a general member, a Ride Captain, and Assistant State Captain. He completed 5,000 missions from Vermont to New York. Jack also went on to serve as a board member for the Connecticut Patriot Guard from April 2008 to June 2019.

In the midst of his work with the Patriot Guard, from 2009 to 2015, Jack volunteered as Logistic Support Manager and Guardian for American Warrior. He escorted World War II veterans to the World War II Memorial, something that he found deeply gratifying.

Jack's selflessness did not go unrecognized. In 2011, he was awarded the Outstanding Citizenship Award by the National Society of the Son of the American Revolution. A year later, he was awarded the Norwich Area Council Veteran of the Year Award for his support and dedication to Norwich area Veterans organizations. And, on November 1, 2013, Jack was inducted into the 9th class of the Connecticut Veterans Hall of Fame--a well-deserved nomination that I enthusiastically supported.

Not one to rest, in 2015, Jack helped establish a series of veteran coffeehouses across Southeastern Connecticut. These coffeehouses offered and continue to offer veterans a network of support, resources and comradery.

Jack stayed active in the veteran community until the end, participating in the Vietnam Veterans of American, Chapter 20, and Easter Seals veterans Rally Point. Jack was a lifetime member of the VVA, VFW, DAV, and Submarine Veterans Association.

Madam Speaker, it is a privilege and an honor to represent constituents as selfless and humble as John ``Jack'' Casey, Jr. Though the gap he leaves in the fabric of Eastern Connecticut's veterans' community is one that won't be soon filled, we can find solace in the reality that Jack's hard work has touched thousands. Jack undoubtedly left those he interacted with better and achieved his goal of leaving things better for those who come after him. I ask that my colleagues please join me in honoring Jack Casey, a man to whom we can all look as a model of leadership and service.

Mr. Speaker, I thank Mr. Takano and Ranking Member Bost for supporting the en bloc.

Mr. Speaker, it is my honor today to speak on behalf of the Hayes amendment offered by my friend and neighbor from Connecticut, Congresswoman Jahana Hayes, who unfortunately could not be here today because she is

quarantining. Her amendment is a commonsense proposal to improve an already outstanding bill that will connect more veterans to benefits they have earned by volunteering to wear the uniform of this country.

Mr. Speaker, last year, at the outset of the VA's highly successful COVID vaccination program, Congresswoman Hayes and I both toured the VA hospital in West Haven, Connecticut, which is the flagship of our VA healthcare system. I had a chance to personally observe her authentic, well-informed advocacy for veteran patients and their family members, asking questions about ways Congress can improve the system, particularly about communicating the full extent of their benefits.

She described casework from the veterans seeking care, about the burdens they faced when navigating a complicated system where not only veterans, but family members struggle to stay current with changing rules and programs. It is particularly troublesome to hear cases of veterans who lose eligibility for help because of late claims caused by poor communication, oftentimes at the time of discharge from military service.

Mr. Speaker, that is why it is so important for the House to pass the EVEST Act which will provide automatic enrollment in the VA system for all transitioning servicemembers.

Mrs. Hayes' friendly amendment wisely requires the VA to go the extra mile and inform veterans who opt out of automatic enrollment through multiple methods, including not only email but also paper mail, that they can reenroll as they transition out of the military. Her measure is a commonsense insurance that veterans are informed of the EVEST so that they know from day one all of the options and rights that they have to get help.

Mr. Speaker, I want to again thank Chair Takano and Ranking Member Bost.

And I will close by simply noting that my district in eastern Connecticut is home to the largest military installation in New England, with 9,000 sailors and officers who work every day to protect our Nation. The transition from military to civilian life happens on a rolling, nonstop basis. Too often we work with veterans who experience gaps in benefits caused by a failure to enroll or late enrollment, which this excellent bill will fix.

Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support the Hayes amendment in the en bloc and the underlying bill.